Holly has long struggled with fluctuating weight and sugar addiction, but when she and her mum decided to join the 8-Week Program, everything changed. Here’s how the Aussie went from yo-yo dieting to feeling good – inside and out.
Holly's journey towards a healthier, sugar-free life began with a familiar struggle – a battle against addiction, weight gain, and declining health. Faced with the daunting task of breaking free from years of yo-yo dieting and sugar dependency, she turned to the I Quit Sugar 8-Week Program for guidance and support. Little did she know, this decision would mark the beginning of a transformative journey towards newfound vitality and self-discovery.
“I always knew what I was eating and that it was terrible for me, but it was the addiction that made me keep going back,” Holly says. “Only after finishing the 8-Week Program did I realise just how addicted I was!”
Holly before the 8-Week Program (left)
She’s not alone here – sugar triggers those feel-good hormones in your brain, sending you up, up, up and then crashing down, craving another high. Sounds like another kind of addiction, doesn’t it? Well, it’s not all that far off! Studies show sugar triggers our brain’s reward system and provokes a stronger response than cocaine. This is because it causes the release of dopamine in the brain, and when we consume sugar in excess, it can be hard to break to cycle of cravings and binging. But you don’t have to do it alone – that’s what we’re here for. Interested in reaping the benefits like Holly? To learn about foods that boost your gut, combat sugar cravings and leave you feeling fuller for longer, come join us for the 8-Week Program. You don’t have to buy exotic ingredients or splash your cash on new appliances; every tool you need, you’ve likely already got, and our ingredients are easily found at your local grocer. Because we know how challenging it can be to make a change in your life, and it’s the little things that make it that much easier (and fun!). Take a look at some of the exciting recipes members enjoy:
- Kale + Cauliflower Curry Puffs
- Raspberry Breakfast Muffins
- Prawn + Mango Tacos
- Swede + Cannellini Bean Soup
- Minty Salmon Brain-Boosting Bowl
- Savoury Crepes
- Spiced Sicilian Stew
For Holly, the road to quitting sugar was paved with challenges and setbacks. Having battled with various diets and weight loss strategies in the past, she understood all too well the fleeting nature of temporary fixes and quick fixes. Despite initial scepticism, inspired by her mother's remarkable success with the Program, Holly took the leap of faith and embarked on her own sugar-free adventure.
The Program offered Holly a structured and comprehensive approach to quitting sugar, unlike anything she had tried before. With meticulously curated meal plans, delicious recipes, and unwavering support from the community forums, she found herself equipped with the tools and resources needed to navigate the complexities of sugar withdrawal and dietary change.
“I found IQS to be a lot more structured and resourceful than other diets I have tried. I never felt deprived of anything. The food tastes amazing and the plan is set out so well it was very easy to follow!”
Throughout the 8-week journey, Holly experienced a series of profound transformations – both physical and emotional. Shedding 8.8kg, losing over 20cm, and witnessing a 5% reduction in body fat were just the beginning. As her body adapted to a sugar-free lifestyle, she noticed significant improvements in her skin condition, increased energy levels, and a newfound sense of control over her cravings and dietary choices. But she didn’t experience those benefits alone – her mum joined her on the program, and ended up with a whopping 20 kilo loss.
“Mum (like myself) has always struggled with yo-yo dieting and her addiction to food. She had looked into the program online and thought it was worth a shot,” Holly says. “Since then, she is down almost 20kg and looks absolutely fantastic. Her skin has improved, she has more energy and can finally fit back into clothes she hasn't worn in years.”
One of the most remarkable changes came in the form of decreased symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – a condition that had plagued her for years. Despite the challenges posed by PCOS, Holly found relief and respite through the Program, experiencing reduced pain, improved skin, and a greater sense of well-being.
Yet, as with any journey, there were moments of doubt and uncertainty. Holly candidly admits to falling off the wagon during and after the Program, succumbing to old habits and coping mechanisms in times of stress. However, fuelled by resilience and determination, she found the strength to pick herself back up and recommit to her health and wellbeing, armed with our tips and tricks to combat cravings and make us of slow-release energy foods.
“I did have withdrawals in the first couple of weeks. The first week was the most difficult for me. Headaches, slight nausea, dizziness and I was downright crabby,” she says. “But after the first week, I felt absolutely amazing. I remember going to the fruit and veggie market with Mum in the second week and saying to her that I had so much energy I almost felt giddy!”
Today, Holly stands as a testament to the transformative power of quitting sugar. Armed with newfound knowledge, resilience, and a deep sense of self-awareness, she continues to navigate her journey towards optimal health and vitality. While the road may be challenging at times, Holly remains steadfast in her commitment to embracing a low-sugar life and reclaiming control over her health and happiness.
“I know I am back in control of what I put into my body and am no longer ruled by my addiction to sugar.”
As she looks towards the future, Holly remains grateful for the invaluable lessons learned through the Program. With each passing day, she embraces the possibilities of a brighter, sugar-free tomorrow, knowing that her journey is not just about losing weight or overcoming addiction – it's about rediscovering joy, vitality, and the endless potential that lies within.
Feeling inspired? We’ve put in the hard yards so you can enjoy the benefits of an extensive, wholistic program that covers everything from learning how to manage nutrition and mental health to social situations. When you join us for the 8-Week Program you’ll have exclusive access to expert guidance, nutritional planning and support every step of the way. Take a peek at what’s on offer:
- 8 weeks of meal plans and shopping lists.
- A range of exclusive recipes, including sugar-free desserts, snacks and all the old favourites.
- Community forums to share and discuss your experience.
- Expert support to guide you through each week – from world-renowned chef Sarah Glover to yoga teachers, nutritionists and naturopaths.
Join us for the next round – don’t wait, JOIN NOW!
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